Sri Lanka need 99 runs to win against Pakistan on Day 5 of 1st Test at Galle

Rangana Herath inspired Sri Lanka to what could be another Test victory, as he grabbed six wickets to bowl out Pakistan for 180 on Day Five of the first Test at Galle. Sri Lanka now require 99 runs to complete what will be a resounding victory if they get it.

Earlier, Pakistan survived Sri Lanka‘s assault till Tea, but were reeling at 153 for eight with Sarfaraz Ahmed the last recognised batsman out in the middle. Pakistan lost the wicket of Abdur Rehman off the last ball of the second session, as Sri Lanka looked set for a victory.

Pakistan had crawled along after lunch at a slightly faster clip than they had in the morning. Misbah-ul-Haq did his best to up the ante, but was dismissed for 28, LBW off Dilruwan Perera. Meanwhile at the other end, Rangana Herath continued to dominate the Pakistani batsmen, getting rid of Azhar Ali caught behind for 41. Asad Shafiq did not last long either, getting LBW for just eight.

Sarfaraz Ahmed and Abdur Rehman hung around for a while, before Shaminda Eranga broke through, getting Rehman caught behind in the last over before Tea, to leave Pakistan in dire straits. Sarfaraz was looking good, but with just two wickets in hand, Sri Lanka went to Tea firmly ahead.

(Shiamak Unwalla is a reporter with Cricket Country. He is a self-confessed Sci-Fi geek and Cricket fanatic who likes to pass his free time by reading books, watching TV shows, and eating food. Sometimes all at the same time. You can follow him on twitter at @ShiamakUnwalla)

First Published on August 10, 2014, 4:07 pmLast updated on August 10, 2014, 4:08 pm